So now it's psyriasis arthritis

[TJ03]

Saw my consultant today and after a scan of my wonky foot and further discussion he now feels my condition is psyriasis arthritis. At this point the flood gates opened.... tears and self pity and anger with the world... Y is this happening to me.

It is to me just more of the unknown. So my meds r changing slowly over the next 6 weeks from steroid to something called methotrexate. And I've to go for xrays on my feet. Anyone know anything about his all. Feeling overwhelmed.

Not sure if this is good or bad. Not sure if this has been what's wrong all along or if PMR is also a factor. Not to sure of very much right now bar I'm left worrying about my future and more importantly the future of my girls with a mum who has this condition.

Life sucks

Anyone know anything about this condition? Or any words of wisdom or support wud be greatfully received.

Thanks TJ

[HeronNS]

if it's any consolation the pred you've been taking is also used for psoriatic arthritis so that hasn't been a waste. If Mtx were effective for PMR you'd have been receiving that instead. At least the new diagnosis, if accurate, has several different medications which can be used, unlike PMR. I was reading about it on this site: arthritis.org/about-arthrit...

and it was interesting reading. It sounds like an unhappy disease to have, but also one with effective treatments. So I hope things come under control soon and you feel better. All the best.

And this, one of the replies includes a link to another site for patients:

healthunlocked.com/arthriti...

[TJ03 in reply to HeronNS]

Thanks for these links I will read asap. The consultant did say the condition has more scope for treatment whichbis should view as positive

Many thanks for u assistance with the extra info.

Tj

[Ruadh]

TJ03 - Psoriatic arthritis / Planta faciitis. Here is a short item that might help iron out a few wrinkles : arapc.com/wp-content/upload...

Planta faciitis does not necessarily mean psoriatic arthritis, or any other arthritic condition ! Many factors can bring on this very painful problem. IF it is PF, there are ways to deal with, which includes cryotherapy (cold therapy) - plunge foot in 10* water for 10 mins, during plunge, massage the sole with a small ball, rolling it back and forth. Foot stretching exercises, needs supervision so as not to cause further inflammation / aggravation of the problem. Special made orthotic insoles - the over the counter ones are not good. Have been advised 'not' to use them. Would need to see a foot specialist for a full consultation. But, it might not be PF. So, back to your doctor armed with questions, so that you know what direction you might be travelling in ! Would also ask for a referral to a podiatric hospital specialist.

Know how painful PF is, as am presently coping with an acute flair - horrible. My physiotherapist is most concerned : armed with X-Rays and no doubt an ultrasound as well, I will be making an appointment with a podiatric hospital specialist.

Neither PF - which I have had on and off (flares) for 27 years - nor PA are life threatening. But sure is a blasted and painful affliction.

Hope this has helped some. Take care, go well -

[TJ03 in reply to Ruadh]

The consultant I see is a rhuematologist he has ordered xrays but cause of work i cudnt go for them today. So have to go back asap. Bloods were taken and a referral to podiatry...

He scared me today... like an ultrasound scan and said he could clearly see 3 out of my 5 toes on my right foot were showing joint inflammation.

Sorry to hear ur experiencing a flare up. Hope it calms again soon. It can be so disabling.

The is for the helpful advise and link which I will read this weekend when I get free time.

TJ

[CT-5012]

I have no experience of this disease but I’m sure the links above will help. Just to send good wishes and virtual hug.

[TJ03 in reply to CT-5012]

Thank u

[Joaclp]

I have some questions about how your diagnosis was made. On the basis of swelling and visible psoriasis? Sausage toes? I ask because you should have been tested for the HLA B27 gene, your inflammation levels should have been measured, and you should have had xrays to check for erosive changes in your joints. Years ago psoriatic arthritis was considered as a dx for me because I had some patches of psoriasis, but it turned out I had a different kind of autoimmune arthritis. If you do have some sort of a/i arthritis, it can be well controlled with drugs these days. Your life will not fall apart! But get some answers from your rheumatologist, including whether PMR is still at issue. He owes you that.I wish you all the best.

[TJ03 in reply to Joaclp]

The diagnosis was based on a scan and I have bee sent for xrays to and bloods were taken. I have to return in 6 weeks for review. I guess I will know maybe more then.

I think my head was in a spin so when he asked had I questions I fell silent. . Cause I was a bit upset.

But in 6 weeks I will ask about the condition more and the pmr alongside it

Thanks TJ

[bunnymom in reply to TJ03]

It is hard to be ready with questions when you get a diagnosis out of the blue like that. Sounds as though it is treatable. Sending you a hug and an accurate diagnosis is a good thing. Hope you are soon well and back doing all you need to do.

[Hidden]

Tj03, I am so very sorry... that does suck! I have no words of wisdom and don't know anything about this condition, but I do feel your pain. And yes.. again... IT SUCKS! As someone who was active, social and healthy... I , in a blink of an eye, had PMR/& GCA, am in need of a total knee replacement and dealing with small nerve neuropathy... WTF?

I understand the "Y is this happening," all too well, but there is no answer... Hang in there.

"So far you've survived 100 percent of your worst days. You're doing great. "

[Joaclp]

I hope your head has stopped spinning or at least slowed down. My experience tells me that when you have a diagnosis and medication it will be better. I'm an instant gratification person, so I know it is hard to be patient. But it will get better!!! Thinking of you, JoA

[Mike1964]

Hi Tj03. Likewise sadly no words of wisdom, but many kind thoughts of sympathy and a big virtual hug. Kind regards, Mike